CMA Takes Action Against UK Online Betting Companies

Following an investigation launched in October 2016, the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is set to take action against a number of UK betting sites. It follows hundreds of complaints made by customers that have either experienced difficulties withdrawing funds or have been misled by complex and confusing promotional terms and conditions.

The CMA has asked customers affected by withdrawal problems to submit their case by August 31st. Examples of the issues include; unreasonable minimum withdrawal limits, unreasonable daily and weekly withdrawal limits, arbitrary timeframes for Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and the inability to withdraw funds due to play through requirements.

The CMA’s findings noted that some customers may be required to play hundreds of times before any cash can be withdrawn. This is deemed to be a significant obstacle that makes it extremely unlikely for the player to win. The CMA is clearly concerned about unfair promotional practices and went on record to say;

“People often don’t get the deal they are expecting as the promotions come with an array of terms and conditions that are often confusing and unclear and, in some cases, may be unfair.”

There are also reported cases of operators refusing to process withdrawals, even when the player concerned was not taking part in a promotion. The possibility of consumer law being breached has caught the attention of the Gambling Commission who have warned that any such malpractice could result in operating licenses being revoked.

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